Altamira Therapeutics Publishes Preclinical Data on SOD2 mRNA Nanoparticle Treatment for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Hamilton, Bermuda, July 19, 2024 — Altamira Therapeutics Ltd. has announced a groundbreaking study showcasing effective treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in an animal model. This study, conducted by researchers from Washington University and the University of South Florida, highlights the potential of SemaPhore™ nanoparticles in delivering SOD2 mRNA to effectively treat AAA. 

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is the localized enlargement of the abdominal aorta, which can be life-threatening if it ruptures. The rupture of an AAA often leads to high mortality, with over half of the patients dying before they reach the hospital. Those who survive the initial rupture face significant morbidity. The risk of AAA increases with age and is more prevalent in men, especially those over 55 years old. Large or rapidly growing AAAs are typically treated with surgery, but new therapeutic approaches are needed for smaller AAAs to prevent their progression and rupture.

The study demonstrated that the treatment with SOD2 mRNA, delivered via Altamira's peptide-based SemaPhore™ nanoparticles, significantly reduced aortic dilation, delayed rupture, and improved survival rates in the AAA mouse model compared to untreated controls. This research indicates a promising therapeutic strategy targeting oxidative stress, which plays a critical role in the development and progression of AAA.

AAA is an inflammatory condition caused by high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). While antioxidants have been considered as a treatment, clinical results have been largely ineffective. The innovative approach used in this study focused on SOD2, an enzyme that eliminates ROS. By delivering SOD2 mRNA to the mitochondria in the aortic wall using SemaPhore™ nanoparticles, researchers were able to increase SOD2 expression, reduce oxidative stress, and prevent the expansion and rupture of small AAAs.

Samuel Wickline, M.D., Chief Scientific Adviser of Altamira and co-author of the study, commented on the promising results. He noted that using SOD2 mRNA to manage oxidative stress could be beneficial in treating various cardiovascular disorders, such as AAA and atherosclerosis, as well as other diseases driven by ROS. Importantly, the SemaPhore™ nanoparticles achieved efficient systemic delivery and uptake of the mRNA payload with effective SOD2 expression in the aortic wall. The treatment showed a favorable safety profile with no significant accumulation in major organs and no adverse effects on blood or kidney function. Additionally, the nanoparticles demonstrated good stability over time.

Altamira Therapeutics is focused on developing peptide-based nanoparticle technologies for RNA delivery to extrahepatic tissues. Their flagship siRNA programs, AM-401 for KRAS-driven cancer and AM-411 for rheumatoid arthritis, are currently in preclinical development. The company’s versatile delivery platform is also suitable for other RNA modalities and is available for licensing to pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

Founded in 2003, Altamira is headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda, with main operations in Basel, Switzerland. The company is in the process of partnering or divesting its inner ear legacy assets and holds a significant stake in Altamira Medica AG, which markets Bentrio®, an OTC nasal spray for allergic rhinitis.

This study marks a significant step forward in the potential management of AAA and offers hope for new, less invasive treatment options to prevent the progression and rupture of this dangerous condition.

How to obtain the latest research advancements in the field of biopharmaceuticals?

In the Synapse database, you can keep abreast of the latest research and development advances in drugs, targets, indications, organizations, etc., anywhere and anytime, on a daily or weekly basis. Click on the image below to embark on a brand new journey of drug discovery!